Comments from Holly Danowski, Co-Owner, Wallingford Health and Wellness Center following the “Healing Power of the Drum Workshop” (December 2002):

This past Saturday, Robert Lawrence Friedman came to the center and led the “Healing Power of the Drum Workshop.” I cannot express my gratitude to him in words. He embodied our mission and purpose at the center and led us to deeper levels of healing and release through drumming.

Using hand drums, Robert took us on a journey within using meditations, exercises, games (oh the games!), rhythms, dialogue and emotions. He led us to our inner children and got everyone to “come out and play”. Each of us formed an inseparable union with our drum…our friend, vehicle and therapist for the day. He gave us time to explore. The group ranged in ages and ability from beginning-beginner to master drummer, yet we were all one when we reached our higher rhythms. I think the depth of the program was expressed by how he tied in Baba Olatunji’s rhythms with his new ideas. In a way, we experienced everything from the roots all the way to the leaves and fruit. He closed with a beautiful “African Village” exercise where we all expressed our individual voices, followed by a tight, uplifting closing circle designed to bring us together as one. I was at the center yesterday, and the whole center is resonating with love and healing rhythms. even the trees and the birds are grooving! I can’t say enough to express my thanks to Robert on where he led the group and what we all learned from the experience. Pat (co-owner) said to me I am still reverberating at such a high level. She said to me: “I can’t explain why I feel this way—I’m so UP… I think it was because Robert was so present. It was truly a dance.”

You can easily and immediately feel Robert’s passion for drumming and workshop with people. I hope you all have a chance to read his book and experience his work soon!

Holly Danowski
Director
Wallingford Health and Wellness Center
203-944-4850